Luminescent terpyridine-based metallo-supramolecular systems: from design to applications

Luminescent metallo-supramolecules have received tremendous attention in recent years owing to their diverse yet well-defined structures, tunable luminescent properties, and broad applications. In this context, the development of terpyridine (tpy)-based luminescent metallo-supramolecular systems has seen rapid growth. This review aims to summarize the recent progress of luminescent metallo-supramolecular assemblies from tpy ligands with metal ions, with a focus on discrete metallo-supramolecular architectures and metallo-supramolecular polymers. The design strategies and common approaches for tuning the luminescence properties are detailed along with representative applications. Finally, the pitfalls and unmet challenges regarding the structural characterization and practical applications of tpy-based metallo-supramolecules are discussed followed by our perspectives on the future directions of this field.